You're almost there. The end is in sight and the world is waiting for you. Although everyone says it's the best time of your life, it can also be overwhelming.  There's a lot of pressure on you to know where you are going and to know what course and career you should be doing.

Choosing a career is a big life decision, so we've asked our team of expert career counsellors for their top tips to help you start your journey.

Getting to know you

You've probably completed a career quiz at school, you may have even sat down with a career counsellor (if not we highly recommend it). But nobody knows you like you know yourself. What are your likes and dislikes? What interests you? What are you passionate about? Make a list, check it twice. Take the time to think about what makes you happy and work backwards. How will you get to that happy place? Your future is worth an investment of your time and reflection.

"Get to know yourself and it's also good to find out about the changing world of work and what skills will be in demand in the future." Hannah, Careers Counsellor

Options, Options, Options

It's estimated that when you train or work in one job you are gaining skills that will help you get another 13 jobs[i]. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to life after graduation. You might decide that you need a break or you might decide to jump straight into another course. Whatever you decide, you have options. Just because you study Hair and Beauty now, doesn't mean you can't do Sound Production next year. The point is all learning is good learning and that these initial steps are only the first steps you will take on a lifelong journey.

"Keep your mind open. Talk to as many people as you can including counsellors, teachers, parents, friends, employers. Explore all your options." Hilary, Careers Counsellor

Find your tribe

Discovering your tribe, or a group of likeminded people, is key to helping you feel supported and building your network. Talk to as many people as you can. Investigate an industry, think about a company you could picture yourself working with. Ring them! Think about a course you can see yourself studying, find someone who has finished the course. Connect with them! People are more willing than you think to share their experiences and to offer advice, and when you are established and successful you will be able to pay it forward.

"Access your allies such as family, friends and peers. Career success can be a team effort." Jim, Career Counsellor

Congratulations on finishing school! If you're looking for great career and study advice you can make an appointment to speak to one of our career counsellors. Visit our website for more information.